Critical Appraisal of Qualitative Research with Particular References to Interviews as a Research Tool

The interview is regarded as one of the most effective methods of collecting data in qualitative research. It enables the researcher to obtain direct and detailed information about experience, values, personal characteristics, attitudes and behaviour. In this paper, evaluative analysis of the three types of interviews, structured, semi-structured and unstructured, will be critically reviewed. Additionally, some of merits and demerits of using focus groups in qualitative research will be discussed as are some significant issues that may affect the quality and the validity of interviews. These issues include interpreters and translators, the influence of the interviewer on the interviewee and the effect of identity in using the interview as an instrument of research.